After installing your solar panels, you will have several queries about maintenance. One of the most common questions potential and current customers ask is: How often should you have your solar panels cleaned? While most professionals recommend letting the rain clean the panels, this will not work in Arizona, which has approximately 299 days of sunshine.
Clean your solar panels to ensure their efficiency today and in the future. It’s best to clean your panels at least every six months to attain the highest possible efficiency. Keep reading to learn more.
Why Do Solar Panels Need To Be Cleaned?
Like any other external part of your house, solar panels can get pretty dirty. Over time, the panels get covered with dust, especially in Arizona’s arid climate. The panels also get coated in bird droppings, leaves and other debris.
Such obstructions block sunlight access and can lower the panel’s effectiveness. According to the National Renewable Energy, such debris can lower the solar panel’s energy output by up to 25%. Moreover, if the dust, dirt and other solid waste accumulate over long periods, they can cause permanent damage, such as scratches and abrasions on the panels.
It’s worth noting that some companies provide regular maintenance. Do not forget to ask this important question before installation. However, if you are leasing the panels, your provider will handle this for you.
The Solar Panel Cleaning Process
Not all solar panels come with the same maintenance guidelines, so it’s essential to review your manufacturer’s instructions before beginning the solar cleaning process. That said, here’s how to clean solar panels in Arizona:
1. Disconnect Your Panels
Before anything else, switch off the main switch of your solar panels to avoid the risk of electric shock.
2. Remove Dirt & Debris
Use a soft brush to remove debris manually and any other accumulated waste on the panels’ surface. Attach the brush to a telescopic extension pole for easy access. However, if you must climb onto the roof, observe safety precautions. Also, check to see if the solar panels’ drainage holes are clean to prevent rainwater from accumulating on them.
3. Spray Your Panels
After removing all solid waste, spray the panels using water or a gentle cleaning solution to get rid of the remaining dirt on the panels. Once you are done, gently wipe the panels with a soft cloth.
4. Scrub Tough Stains
After spraying away most of the dust and debris, you can focus on the problematic areas. Dunk a squeegee, soft cloth, or sponge into a bucket of clean water to gently clean the tough stains. Be careful not to damage the panels. Once you are done, dry the panels with a soft cloth to avoid water marks and streaks.
5. Test Your Panels
Restart your system and observe the panel’s performance over the next few days to measure the cleaning impact. To get an accurate picture of the cleaning’s impact on the solar output, compare your energy bill before and after cleaning.
Switch to Solar Today With Solar Optimum
Depending on the number of solar panels on your property and their accessibility from the ground, solar panel cleaning can be challenging and lengthy. If you are not confident about cleaning the solar panels on your own, let a professional help.
In addition to cleaning your solar panels regularly, it’s important to invest in high-quality ones with industry-standard warranties. Contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable energy consultants to find out more ways to ensure your solar panels perform at their peak performance.
